NUMERICAL MODELLING OF A ROLLOVER CARWASH MACHINE STRUCTURE

Keywords

Rollover car-washing machines, structural design, numerical analysis

Abstract

This work describes the development of a new rollover carwash
structure designed to accomplish a number of objectives: (a)
minimizing manufacturing complexity; (b) improving transportation
and installation strategies; and (c) reducing weight and size. As
the newly developed structure is signiﬁcantly lower in weight, it
was necessary to ensure its adequate performance. Therefore, a
numerical modelling study was done to evaluate the mechanical
behaviour of the new structure and to ensure it performs well both
under normal operating conditions and when subjected to common
hazards. The results obtained allowed concluding that the new
designed structure is capable of withstanding the loads applied
under normal conditions, in lifting operations, and that excessive
vibrations are not expected. In case of column obstruction, which is
considered as a hazard, the maximum stress may reach values close
to the yield stress of the material; however, the proposed redesign
reduces the stress levels back to the elastic region. These conclusions
gave useful indications to review structure design to minimize the
risks related to the identiﬁed problems.